Custom Builds

About my Banjos and Custom Work

To construct all my banjos, I search out the finest materials available . Your banjo will truly be one of a kind. When I make one of my instruments, I approach the building process as an organic sculpture taking into consideration the color and texture of exotic woods, shape and size of the gourds, color contrast. These elements combine to give the musician, not only a fine musical instrument, but a beautiful piece of art.

GOURD BANJOS

All of out instruments are made from gourds grown in the fields of central California. Some of the gourds that I use measure up to 3/4″ thick, making them ideal for a carved surface. Also, thickness does have a factor in the tone of the instrument.
Two different styles of gourds are used in the making of my banjos. Canteen, which is what the name implies, somewhat flat. This type of gourd gives the instrument plenty of punch. The other is a Martin kettle gourd which is more like a ball, and it tends to give a deeper sound.

GOURD BANJOLELES

The same quality and care goes into making my Gourd Banjoleles, as you will find in my Gourd Banjos. Banjoleles are available in Soprano 13″ scale, Concert 15″ scale. Tenor 17″ scale, and NOW Baritone 19″ Scale, and like my banjos any banjo size or style I make can be customized for its new owner. Including headstock carvings and mineral and wood inlays.

The Tattoo Series of Banjoleles includes a hand painted design using India Ink, and is then coated with Scotchguard to protect and waterproof the image. I can even add a custom graphic of your choice to any banjo or banjolele head.

GOURDS

All of out instruments are made from gourds grown in the fields of central California. Some of the gourds that I use measure up to 3/4″ thick, making them ideal for a carved surface. Also, thickness does have a factor in the tone of the instrument.
Two different styles of gourds are used in the making of my banjos. Canteen, which is what the name implies, somewhat flat. This type of gourd gives the instrument plenty of punch. The other is a Martin kettle gourd which is more like a ball, and it tends to give a deeper sound.

WOODS

I try to find the most interesting woods to make the necks and wood parts, including: Curly Maple, Mahogany, Cherry, and Black Walnut. I then use dye stains to create an artistic contrast to the gourd. Other woods are available for custom work.

Custom Builds

are available on all banjos and banjoleles for an additional
charge based on the complexity of the design.

Custom banjos and banjoleles do not have to be expensive. If you see an instrument on my website but the neck wood is not what you are after, one can be built with your pick of wood. Mix and match necks gourds and pegheads…it’s all good.

Call me and we can talk banjos I’d love to hear from you. 770-712-4419 I’m down south in Georgia so plan your call so I am not sleeping.

We are always building new instruments. Fill out the contact form and we can notify you when the process starts.

Barry's New Build Notification Network.

We are always building new instruments, send us your name and email and we will send you updates on upcoming and available builds.